Managing construction projects evolves as the years change. Professionals in construction are looking for ways to upskill as projects are starting to upscale and get more complex. With these changes, project managers worldwide are now looking for ways to improve their management skills to handle their projects more efficiently toward success.
This is where Project Management Professional (PMP) certification comes into play.
What is PMP Certification?
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a construction industry-recognized credential for project managers. Having a PMP demonstrates the experience, skill, education, and competency needed to lead and direct different kinds of projects. A PMP certification also tells your peers, employers, and the world you know what you’re doing as a project manager. PMP recognizes your ability to manage many projects and all the work you’ve done so far to get there.
Construction management in the construction industry implements a waterfall process. The PMP practices method in particular terms. PMPs in the construction industry shine because they are well-versed in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), giving them the leverage for achievement and success compared to their peers.
According to the Project Management Institute, there are more than 1,200,000 PMP certification holders worldwide.
Why Take PMP Certification?
Across different industries, having PMP training and certification gives you a wide range of opportunities to expand your career prospects. PMP certification have gained recognition in various industries, including IT, utilities, manufacturing, aerospace and defense telecommunications, banking and & finance, and more. Certified PMPs in all industries also report that they earn 25% more than non-certified project management professionals in their field.
Some of the other benefits of a PMP certification include:
1. Better Career Opportunities
With the rising demand for project managers worldwide and a big portion of the construction talent pool reaching retirement age, there is an even bigger need for project managers than ever.
This is great news for PMP-certified professionals. Since the demand for certified project managers is increasing in various industries, having a PMP can give you an edge over other candidates. The best jobs will always be reserved for those with the experience and training that comes with PMP certification.
2. More Rewarding Construction Projects
Everyone in the industry wants challenging assignments that provide opportunities to flex and grow their professional muscles. PMPs have higher opportunities to be selected for managing construction projects like these.
Whether it’s an international project with multiple teams spread across the globe speaking foreign languages or a big project that requires a deeper risk assessment and cost computation, PMP holders are equipped with the tools needed to tackle these projects confidently since they have ample background to use on the field.
3. Higher Job Security
While the job opportunities remain favorable for construction project managers, there is no certainty that a firm won’t undergo downsizing in the long run. As the recent pandemic showed us, the luck of any business can turn around in the blink of an eye. Thus, holding a certification in project management can give you confidence that you offer value to employers who require skilled project managers to keep their businesses afloat.
4. Increased Network
v Networking is an essential tool of any career path. When you are a certified PMP, you’ll be able to join a worldwide community of 1.2 million professionals at the top of the project management field. You will also be able to meet PMPs in the construction industry who can help you widen your perspective.
Through PMI’s networking events, you can meet with experts and specialized professionals across different fields, too. By surrounding yourself with accomplished project managers in these events, you can learn construction crew management used in other countries, scheduling techniques, digital solutions, and more.
5. Construction Industry Mastery
As a construction manager, you have most likely handled multiple projects in your career. It is also very likely that you have worked with different teams every time. Conversing with a common construction language ensures that all your team members stay on the same page.
Even though you may learn numerous basic project management terms (such as work breakdown structure and purchase order) on the job, you will master these concepts by taking the PMP certification exam. Additionally, construction crew management will be easier when you can talk to your team with the industry-known lingo.
6. Increased Opportunities to Jump Industries
Let’s not close any doors, as project management jobs are not only limited to construction and engineering. Today’s project management jobs aren’t limited to technology, engineering, and construction. Industries outside the construction world are all looking for certified project managers to manage their projects, from finance to amusement parks to media to healthcare.
Since the principles of PMP certification can be applied to nearly any industry, this can make it easier for you to prove that you have the skill set to take on a new field or help you attract new start-ups if you’re exploring your own as a freelance project manager.
How Can I Prepare for the PMP Certification Exam?
After all the information you learned above, you might be considering taking the exam this year. Now, here are the final tips that you have to keep in mind before taking the exam.
1. Use Major References Provided by Project Management Institute (PMI)
PMBOK (Project Management Body Of Knowledge) Guide in 6th edition and Agile Practice Guide are the two major references constantly used for the PMP exam. PMBOK 6 introduced agile methodologies.
However, please note that the PMBOK is not the sole reference for the PMP exam. Many other references are mentioned for the PMP exam on the PMI website. An Institute experienced in creating PMP prep courses can assist you regarding the PMP prep materials, so make sure to absorb information from the PMI website.
2. Utilize PMI Authorized PMP Preparation Contents
Utilizing the PMI Authorized prep content can give you confidence since you have the assurance that the materials that will be used for the PMP exam prep are from an authentic source. However, the PMI-authorized prep contents are only briefly discussed, so this should be supplemented with other materials for in-depth clarity as you study.
3. Make A PMP Exam Study Plan
Each student will have their preparation process when studying for the PMP exam certification. Make a study plan that fits your learning style. Use the PMP training reference materials to create a comprehensive study plan.
You can also get training from a qualified instructor for a PMP certification course. It is one of the most surefire ways to become a PMP professional. As you study for the PMP certification exam, your instructor can also guide you through each step and help you prepare for the PMP exam.
4. Take Mock Tests to Gauge Your Knowledge
The PMP exam asks questions based on different scenarios, requiring you to apply theoretical knowledge to these situations. Hence, the mock tests will help you get familiar with the PMP exam format. Mock tests will help you efficiently evaluate your ability to take the 3-hour and 45-minute exam. Use mock tests as a way to fine-tune your PMP exam preparation.
5. Assess and Improve Weak Points
The best way you can prepare for the PMP exam is to pinpoint and improve your weak areas. This self-evaluation will give you a clear idea of where your weak points are and what you need to improve through mock tests. This will help you to check your preparation level before you take the exam.
6. Set Your Deadline – Schedule the PMP Certification Exam in Advance
It is very critical to set the deadline for the PMP exam. Otherwise, procrastination will take over. Parkinson’s Law states that work lengthens the time allotted to complete it. An unnecessary delay in taking the exam after your PMP training may not be counter-productive. Hence, set personal goals even before you start with the exam preparations. The ideal PMP exam preparation time is 2 to 3 months from the first day of your training.
7. Enroll in a PMP Certification Training Program
Sign up for a PMP training program. Ensure that the program offers you training materials based on the latest profile of PMI exam content. The instructor must be a certified PMP with good standing with PMI and relevant experience in the industry to ensure you acquire the most useful project management knowledge aligned with the concepts set by PMI.
Such training will help you pass the certification exam and give you lots of practical insights into managing construction projects in the real world. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure you get post-training support from your instructor, which is vital to your exam preparation.
While doing your exam preparations, you can also adapt construction scheduling software for your business so you can still have an outlook on your projects even when studying.
Project management has never been more efficient with construction management software and PMP certification combined.
